How to Get Back Into a Routine: 9 Ways to Reset Your Day

Life doesn’t exactly come with a “pause” button. Maybe it was a busy work stretch, a long holiday, a move, or just the cumulative chaos of adulting that pulled your schedule out of whack. Suddenly, workouts have slipped, healthy meals are sporadic, and your sleep schedule feels like it’s living its best life — somewhere without you.

Sound familiar? You’re not alone. We’ve all been there. And the truth is, getting back into a routine doesn’t have to be a massive overhaul or a source of guilt. It’s about strategy, creativity, and small, intentional steps that rebuild habits in a way that feels natural — and maybe even fun.

In this post, we’re diving into how to get back into a routine with a mix of practical advice and a little fun. By the end, you’ll have a roadmap to reset your rhythm, stay consistent, and reclaim your best self.

Why Getting Back Into a Routine Matters

Before we dive into tips, let’s quickly talk about why routines are worth it. A healthy routine isn’t just about discipline or productivity — it’s about structure, mental clarity, and energy. Here’s what establishing one can do for you:

Boosts energy and focus: When your day has a rhythm, you naturally know when to work, move, and rest.
Reduces stress: Knowing what to expect reduces decision fatigue.
Supports long-term wellness: Consistent sleep, movement, and nutrition habits compound over time.
Improves mental health: Even small daily habits like stretching, journaling, or meditation reduce stress hormones and improve mood.

Getting back into a routine isn’t about perfection. It’s about creating a framework that supports your life, energy, and goals.

Step #1 Embrace the “Routine Remix”

The first rule in learning how to get back into a routine? Don’t try to perfectly replicate your old schedule. That version of your life may no longer exist — and that’s okay.

Instead, think of it like remixing your favorite song. Keep the parts that feel good, drop what’s draining, and add fresh beats to make it exciting again.

For example:

Loved your morning yoga but hated running? Keep the yoga and swap in a walk or dance session.
Meal prepping stressed you out? Keep one easy go-to lunch and experiment with new healthy snacks.
Struggling to stay focused during meditation? Try a guided 3-minute session or a playful breathing exercise.

By remixing your routine instead of rebooting it, you’re building a structure that feels tailored to you — and that alone makes sticking with it easier.

Step #2 Start Small and Build Momentum

Big overhauls are intimidating. Micro wins are motivating. That’s why starting small is critical when figuring out how to get back into a routine.

Here’s how it works:

Commit to a 5-minute workout instead of an hour.
Drink one glass of water first thing in the morning.
Prep one healthy meal per day instead of a week-long plan.

These tiny, achievable steps set you up for success. They create momentum without stress — and over time, small habits compound into big changes.

Remember: consistency beats intensity when it comes to routines. One small win each day will eventually snowball into a rhythm you don’t have to force.

Step #3 Anchor New Habits to Existing Ones

When trying to figure out how to get back into a routine, the easiest path is to link new habits to something you already do. This is called “habit stacking,” and it’s surprisingly effective.

For example:

After brushing your teeth → do 2 minutes of stretching.
While waiting for coffee → jot down your top 3 priorities for the day.
After lunch → take a 10-minute walk around your block.

By anchoring habits to pre-existing routines, you reduce the mental effort needed to remember and follow through. Your brain loves patterns, and this method makes your new habits feel automatic.

Step #4 Make Your Routine Enjoyable

Here’s the truth: a routine that feels like punishment won’t last. If your schedule is all “shoulds” and zero fun, you’re setting yourself up for failure.

Instead, prioritize enjoyment:

Swap a jog for a dance workout or a fun HIIT session on FitOn.
Try new recipes or playful twists on healthy meals — colorful bowls and smoothie hacks make eating well feel exciting.
Turn everyday tasks into movement opportunities — squats while brushing teeth, walking meetings, or stretch breaks during work.

When your routine sparks a little joy, motivation becomes automatic. You’re not dragging yourself through it — you’re choosing to show up.

Step #5 Plan for Flexibility

Life is unpredictable. Trying to force a rigid routine is a recipe for frustration. Build in flexibility instead.

Schedule habits but allow swaps. Can’t do a 30-minute workout? Do 10 minutes instead.
Keep backup options for meals or workouts. Having a plan B keeps you consistent.
Accept that missed days happen. One skipped workout isn’t failure; it’s part of the process.

Flexible routines are sustainable. They let you adapt without guilt, making it easier to stick with your overall rhythm.

Step #6 Track Your Wins

Tracking isn’t just for obsessive planners. Seeing progress reinforces habits and keeps your motivation high.

Use a habit tracker, app, or journal to mark workouts, meals, meditation, or hydration.
Celebrate streaks and small wins — even if it’s as simple as “I made my bed every day this week.”
Reflect weekly to identify patterns: what’s working, what needs tweaking, and what’s enjoyable.

Tracking builds accountability and makes your progress tangible. Momentum grows when you see it.

Step #7 Celebrate Every Win

Consistency doesn’t have to look perfect. Sometimes your “win” is unconventional, and that’s okay.

A 5-minute stretch counts as movement.
A smoothie counts as a healthy meal.
Walking to the mailbox counts as stepping outside.

Routines are about showing up, not about perfection. Celebrate the small wins — they compound into real change over time.

Step #8 Treat Your Routine Like a Lifestyle, Not a Chore

The most successful routines aren’t about pressure. They’re about identity: who you want to be, how you want to feel, and what your daily rhythm says about your life.

Energized, not exhausted
Focused, not frantic
Confident, not stressed

When you think of your routine as part of your lifestyle rather than a set of tasks, habits become automatic. You’re not “checking a box”; you’re living your best life every day.

Step #9 Use Momentum to Expand Your Routine

Once you’ve rebuilt your base habits, start adding more. Momentum makes it easier:

Add a new 10-minute FitOn class.
Try a morning journaling or meditation session.
Swap an unhealthy snack for a protein-rich option.

Routines don’t have to be static. Start with the essentials, then layer on additional habits once you feel comfortable.

Step #10 Keep It Fun and Rewarding

Finally, make sure your routine is rewarding. The brain responds to happiness — habits that feel good are easier to maintain.

Celebrate milestones: treat yourself to a new workout outfit or a favorite healthy treat.
Mix in variety to prevent boredom: rotate workouts, meals, and mindfulness activities.
Connect your routine to a bigger goal: strength, energy, mental clarity, or simply feeling better each day.

When you enjoy the process, consistency follows naturally.